Two Tankers Down: The Greatest Small-Boat Rescue In U.S. Coast Guard History

by Robert Frump

A riveting account of the greatest small-boat rescue in American history.

224 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2008

Reviews

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this well-researched story of the breakup and loss of two WWII-surplus oil tankers off Cape Cod fifty-some years ago. It gives a real insight into what rescue service was like before the advent of helicopters and electronics, but after the end of the age of sail.

[Steven · Rating 4 out of 5]

As with Frump's other book, this one is a detailed, gripping narrative account of the rescue of over thirty mariners from the hulk of the Fort Mercer after she broke in two off the coast of Massachusetts in 1952. Although the Pendleton rescue is also covered in some depth, the crux of the account is the small-boat rescue from the stern section of the Fort Mercer, and this is rendered in a clear and interesting manner.

I do think there could have been more digressions relevant to the main story. The author lays out why this was not the case, but I felt that there could have been further context, both before and after the incident (especially as its aftermath pertains directly to the reasons why unsafe vessels such as the Marine Electric were still in operation 3 decades later).

There were a few times that the narrative was a bit muddled or jumpy, such as when Bangs was first mentioned without an introduction, some of the dialogue (which could've used slightly more context at times), and the movements of the other rescue lifeboat piloted by Bangs during the incident.

These weren't major distractions, but they were noticeable.

Overall it was a quick, involving read, and it certainly gives a great and detailed overview of the events.

[Frank · Rating 4 out of 5]

After having seen the Movie "The Finest Hours" (which was excellent) I just had to read more about the rescue of the men from the SS Pendeleton, I have read Bernie Webber's own book which was outstanding and this book which tells the story from the standpoint of the men being rescued. The rescue of the men from the SS Pendeleton will forever remain as one of the most unbelievable rescues in the history of the U.S. Coast Guard. We would consider ourselves fortunate to have more men in this world like Bernie Webber.

[Peter Jowers · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting read. His other book on a maritime disaster equally worth reading: Until the sea shall free them. About the Marine Electric. Sadly another old American ship El Faro, could provide another book for the author’s pen.